KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has assured that sports development programmes and athletes’ welfare will remain a priority despite the country facing financial constraints.
Speaking at the National Sports Awards 2025, Anwar said the government would not reduce allocations involving sports initiatives or athlete welfare.
He said he had informed Youth and Sports Minister Dr Mohammed Taufiq Johari that support for sporting events and athletes would continue uninterrupted.
“Despite the financial constraints we are facing, I have stressed that sports programmes and the welfare of athletes must continue to be fully preserved without any cuts.
“Hopefully, we will continue to witness greater success in sports,” he said in his speech at the National Sports Council earlier today.
Anwar said the government’s commitment could be seen through the continued allocation for the Malaysian Games (Sukma) in Selangor, despite ongoing global economic pressures.
He also emphasised the need to provide athletes with the best facilities and training opportunities, in line with the country’s push towards digital transformation and modernisation.
Anwar further called for broader and more inclusive participation in sports among Malaysians, describing it as an important element in strengthening unity and national development.
“The true meaning of participatory democracy is not limited to elections and political processes alone, but also the involvement of ordinary people in all forms of activities,” he said.
Anwar added that sports remained a powerful platform for bridging racial, religious and social divides, stressing that participation should be open to everyone without barriers.
“Participation and support happen naturally.
“We are witnessing a unique mix of participants from different races, faiths and regions gathered here,” he said.
Following his speech, Anwar presented awards to several outstanding athletes, including national mixed doubles pair Chen Tang Jie and Toh Ee Wei, who were named National Sportsman and Sportswoman for 2025. – May 19, 2026